May 2013 Birchbox Review

At one point a couple of years ago I was subscribed to all four main beauty boxes – Glossybox, Feel Unique, She Said and Boudoir Privé. In the end I decided to take it down to just one, and for a long time I was a subscriber to the last, Boudoir Privé. Since then, they were acquired by the French company Jolie Box, who in turn were acquired by US based company Birchbox. I’ve been desperate to try a Birchbox but have been trying not to sign up for any more monthly subscriptions so when I was offered to review the May edition I jumped at the chance. I really like the packaging; it looks neat and smart and the bow is a nice touch. Inside, the products are contained within a drawstring bag, which I also think is a nice concept. A card inside the box explained that in May Birchbox are supporting Fashion Targets Breast Cancer by donating 30% of all sales in their e-shop to the cause, and £5 every time you refer a friend. Breakthrough Breast Cancer is an amazing cause and I love that they’re supporting it so generously.

The theme for the Max Birchbox is ‘Red Carpet Ready’ – preparing you for any parties or events you might have this month. Here’s what was in my box…

With my holiday coming up in a couple of weeks I’m super excited that I’ve now got a few new bits to stash in my travel bag. I love taking all my samples with me on holiday and noting down what I’ll definitely be buying when I get back! I’m always a sucker for a full-size product so I have to say that the Make Believe bronzer is a favourite of mine in this box. I use a Bobbi Brown bronzer at the moment but it’s the only one I own so this will be a great addition to my make-up collection. The Body Soufflé also smells heavenly and is really light and creamy – I can see myself buying this again. The smaller samples are a really nice treat but I must admit I’d be unlikely to spend almost £14 on a tin of tea, £115 on an eye cream or £42 on a moisturiser – they will be a lovely treat but I don’t think I’ll be going on to buy the full sizes. I don’t own any OPI nail varnishes so I’m looking forward to seeing how the sample compares to the other nail polish brands I’m usually loyal to. Overall I really like the Birchbox I was sent and I’d definitely consider subscribing in future, this one in particular seems to be a high value box so you’re definitely getting your money’s worth. Birchbox costs £10 a month (+ P&P) and you can subscribe here.